Village capital - US 2016

Energy is an important driver behind a number of environmental and social pressures, including climate change, land and water use, social inclusion and economic prosperity. Energy is used to collect, purify and transport water; to haul waste and goods; and to bring energy itself to end-users.

In 2016, roughly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States emanate from fuel combustion in transportation systems. And not only does transportation represent the second-largest cost for the average American household and the largest cost for households that earn $50,000 and less, but also an exorbitant cost embedded in the price of energy, food, water and other goods. For example, the average meal in the United States travels over 1,500 miles from the farm to tables in trucks, trains, and airplanes.

In the Village Capital Energy: US 2016 program, supported by the Blackstone Charitable Foundation, we are gathering 9 early stage ventures solving energy inefficiencies across our goods value chain, with a specific focus on the transportation of energy, water, food, and other goods. The demand for these transportation-dependent resources is expected to rise by 40 percent by 2030, presenting a unique challenge to make and maintain low-carbon lifestyles.